OC Relay for Life will be held in Walhalla

Two blocks of downtown Walhalla will be closed for on May 17-18 for the 2013 Oconee County Cancer Relay for Life, the annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. “We have had the Relay at area high schools in the past and we thought it would be good to have the event in downtown Walhalla and invite merchants to join in the festivities,” said Beverly Blackwell, event chairperson. “We invite everyone and particularly families to come out and participate.” The portion of Main Street between Ann and Catherine Streets will be closed beginning at 9am on May 17. A large performance stage will be placed on Main at Spring Street. The event kicks off at 7pm May 17 and will conclude at 7am May 18. The theme of this year’s Relay for Life is Super Heroes. “We have a goal of $122,000 up from our 2012 event which raised $118,019 for cancer research,” Blackwell said. An important part of the Relay is the recognition of cancer survivors. A special banquet for survivors is planned. Invitations to the banquet were sent to last year’s survivors, but cancer survivors who have not received an invitation should contact Christine Williams at 864-627-1903 to attend. Various activities are planned throughout the event. Musical artists include Adam Carter and his band, Divine Calling, Barry & Gail Brown, Brooklyn Garrett, Tony Edwards, Bobby and the All-stars, and others. In addition, food and arts and crafts will be available.